New Delhi: New satellite images released by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) show a massive cloud formation which stretches nearly 1,000 kilometres across parts of India and Pakistan.
It signals an approaching spell of heavy rain, driven by an active western disturbance.
The dense cloud band indicates a significant weather system moving eastward, according to IMD officials.
The western disturbance, a periodic weather phenomenon which originates over the Mediterranean region, could result in widespread rainfall, thunderstorms and gusty winds over northern and northwestern states in the next few days.
This is the second such weather phenomenon in a fortnight. A linear low-pressure western disturbance, with a 1,000-kilometre cloud band from Afghanistan through Pakistan and deep into India, brought intense rainfall, thunderstorms, gusty winds and also hailstorms deep into March, when the summer heat is well and truly on.
The current satellite image shows a thick, multi-layered cloud cover over Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana and parts of Rajasthan in India, and spilling into Pakistan.
Such large-scale cloud buildup is associated with strong moisture incursion and atmospheric instability, which result in rain and thunderstorms, according to meteorologists.
Experts have warned that the system may trigger moderate to heavy rainfall in isolated pockets, accompanied by lightning and short-duration intense showers.
Hailstorms and sudden temperature drops are also possible in some areas, particularly over the plains and Himalayan foothills.
Residents and farmers have been advised to stay alert, as IMD said rains could impact standing crops and disrupt daily activities. There could be waterlogging and traffic disruptions in urban areas.
Though there could be temporary relief from rising temperatures across north India, conditions may turn warmer once the system passes.
